This Action Plan is drawn up to secure the future of reader development activity beyond the end of the Estyn Allan project and to ensure that reader development is embedded in future service development strategies and policies.

Reader development is already identified as a priority activity within our service aims and objectives:

Service aims:• To promote higher standards of literacy and encourage reading for pleasure in all sections of the community• To support lifelong learning through the role of the library as a gateway to learning• To empower citizens through the provision of a reliable and impartial Information Service• To enrich the experience of individuals and communities in the Vale through access to the cultural resources of the past and present

Service objectives:We have 8 key objectives, with one of these focusing on reader development:

• arranging an on-going programme of events and activities to promote reading

Why do we place such value on reader development?

• To reinforce our libraries’ position as a community focus for reading for all• To add value to the service we provide our readers by extending our role beyond resource centres to more pro-active support and development of reading activity• To promote the diversity of reading material available• To increase our issues and the use of the libraries’ services• To encourage non traditional users to borrow books and develop a reading habit

The action plan addresses future development at strategic, operational and service delivery levels and by implementing this action plan we intend to:

• Clarify and extend the role our libraries play in developing and supporting people’s reading• Consolidate and mainstream existing activities• Create an environment where experimenting with ideas and adopting good practice is encouraged• Confirm our strategic commitment to reader development